CUSP is solicting Chipper Dates in the 285 corridor

The Coalition for the Upper South Platte fuels team is looking to book some Chipper dates in the 285 corridor this summer. CUSP is a non-profit watershed protection agency, and not a chipper “service”. We work with you, as a volunteer, to further the goal of preventing wildfires. The most efficient way to mitigate fire hazards is often with your HOA, as a whole, or working with your individual neighbors to create a full day of chipping work for our crew members. We have a full sized, Morbark chipper, with a trained crew, and charge a minimal fee in the form of a donation.
Due to the fact that we are serving a very large area now, dates will be limited this season. So, please CONTACT  soon if you are interested.
And be sure to go to our Chipper page for more information about our program, including rates.
As community members; please look into Firewise.org and FAC.org for more information about mitigating around your home and ensuring your community is prepared in the event of fire. We look forward to helping.

 

 

Environmental Education Workshops for Grandparents of Preschoolers

Do you remember playing outside for hours and being captivated by nature as a child?  Would you like to share your enthusiasm for the outdoors with your grandchildren?   

Project Learning Tree is offering workshops throughout the month of September tailored specifically for grandparents interested in learning fun and easy activities for engaging 3-6 year olds in the natural world.  Early childhood is the best time to ignite interest in life-long learning about the environment, and exploring nature is a great way to spend time together.  The 3 hour workshops are hands-on, and participants will take home an activity guide and music CD.  Visit www.coloradoplt.org for details and to register for the workshops.

Sept. 10    The Gardens at Spring Creek, Ft. Collins
Sept. 11    Denver Indian Center
Sept. 12    South Platte Park, Littleton
Sept. 16    The Hope Center, Denver
Sept. 19    Hudson Gardens & Event Center, Littleton
Sept. 22    Lamb Library, Pueblo
Sept. 28    Woodland Park Senior Center, Woodland Park
Sept. 27    Lookout Mt. Nature Center, Golden
Sept. 29    The Delta Center, Delta

Playing with Fire

The Union of Concerned Scientists have released a report outlining the effects of climate change on wildfire costs in the West.

Climate change is producing hotter, drier conditions in the American West, which contribute to more large wildfires and longer wildfire seasons.

The risk to people and their homes is rising as a result, a growing danger made worse by the increasing number of homes and businesses being built in and near wildfire-prone areas. Past fire suppression and forest management practices have also led to a build-up of flammable fuel wood, which increases wildfire risks.

Costs are soaring in response. The expense of fighting wildfires and protecting life and property from harm is nearly four times greater than it was 30 years ago and has exceeded $1 billion every year since 2000 (in 2012 dollars).

Other costs, including the impact on public health, property, ecosystems, and livelihoods, are significant, often far exceeding firefighting costs.

Right now we are failing to effectively manage this mounting risk. We must make better use of our resources to more effectively manage wildfire risks and prepare for the growing consequences of climate change.

Read the entire synopsis and the full report – Playing with Wildfire.